Route: DELHI(1N) – AMRITSAR(2N) – DELHI(1N)- AYODHYA(1N) – LUCKNOW(1N) – KOLKATA(3N) – BODHGAYA(3N) – VARANASI(3N) – KHAJURAHO(1N) – AGRA(1N) – DELHI(1N)
Price: Euro 4115 per person
Single Room Supplement: Euro 490 per room
Date: From 27 Feb 2025 to 18 March 2025
The Incredible Diversity of India and the Festival of Colors, HOLI
This journey offers a comprehensive insight into the cultural diversity of India. You will experience the majestic Ganges River, visit sacred temples, admire the Taj Mahal, explore the Pink City of Jaipur, and the picturesque desert oasis of Udaipur. Our study tour has been carefully planned to present the highlights of India in comfort. Domestic flights bridge longer distances, while first-class hotels and excellent tour guides ensure a pleasant stay. A special highlight is the opportunity to celebrate one of the country’s most important festivals, HOLI, with the locals.
What is the Holi Festival in India?
Holi, one of the most significant and vibrant festivals in India, is celebrated with boundless joy and is known worldwide. Just mentioning the word “Holi” brings a smile to people’s faces and spreads enthusiasm. It not only celebrates the arrival of spring but is also a time of joy and hope.
Legend of the Holi Festival:
Holi, one of the oldest festivals in India, is associated with numerous fascinating stories that span across various states from north to south and from east to west. Paintings and writings document the origins of this festival, with mythology playing a central role. Particularly well-known are the stories of “Holika Dahan” and the legend of Radha-Krishna, both closely tied to Holi.
The Story of Holika:
The tradition of “Holika Dahan,” where bonfires are lit, is inseparably linked to Holi. This ritual symbolizes the victory of good over evil and has its roots in the legend of the demon king Hiranyakashyap. He attempted to end the life of his blessed son Prahlad with the help of his sister Holika. However, Holika burned in the fire while Prahlad remained unharmed. Since then, the day has been celebrated as the triumph of good over evil.
The Story of Radha and Krishna:
The legend of Radha and Krishna is closely connected to the Holi tradition of colors. In this story, the young Krishna, envious of the radiant fair complexion of his beloved Radha, playfully applied color to her face. To this day, lovers color their partners as an expression of affection, inspired by this ancient legend.
Holi Celebrations in India:
In rural India, Holi is known as Basant Utsav. It is one of the most important festivals in India and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. Gulal (colored powders) and Pichkaris (water guns) are synonymous with the festival. Elaborate plans are made to adorn loved ones, and everyone wants to be the first to color the other. In the ensuing color battle, people are drenched not only in Gulal but also in love and happiness. People love to immerse others and themselves in colored water. Gujiyas and other sweets are offered to everyone who joins in the colorful festivities.
Temples are beautifully decorated during Holi. The idol of Radha is placed on swings, and devotees turn the swings while singing devotional Holi songs. Nowadays, small theatrical performances are also organized to reflect the spirit of the festival.
Hello! Welcome to India. You will be greeted at the airport by our representative and traditionally welcomed, followed by transfer to the hotel. Delhi is a vibrant and bustling city, full of historical landmarks, museums, galleries, shops, and countless markets. It offers numerous opportunities for sightseeing, activities, and dining.
Amritsar offers an impressive experience! In the afternoon, you can stroll through the lively bazaar of the old town – a vibrant and exciting experience! Amritsar is known worldwide as the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs.
After breakfast, you will explore the spiritual center of the Sikhs: the highlight is, of course, the incomparable Golden Temple, whose construction dates back to the 16th century. The temple, covered in gold leaf, is reflected in a small lake surrounded by a palace complex. Thousands of pilgrims (not just Sikhs!) visit the sanctuary, and throughout the day, verses from the Holy Book are recited, accompanied by music and broadcast over loudspeakers around the complex—the atmosphere created is truly impressive!
In the afternoon, you will drive to Attari (the border town) to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This ceremony at the India-Pakistan border in Attari, near Amritsar, is an impressive spectacle that takes place every evening. Soldiers from both countries perform precisely choreographed movements and parades, accompanied by patriotic songs and an enthusiastic crowd. The ceremony symbolizes the constant vigilance and national pride of both nations, despite their historically complex and often tense relationship.
After Landing, you will drive to South Delhi and visit the Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the tallest brick minaret in the world. Admire the impressive architecture and the inscriptions that tell the story of this historic site.
Following this, enjoy a panoramic drive through the government district.
India Gate: Drive to the India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to the Indian soldiers who fell during World War I. Stroll along the Rajpath Boulevard and enjoy the majestic atmosphere.
Presidential Palace and Parliament: Continue to the Presidential Palace and the Indian Parliament, two other iconic buildings along Rajpath. Admire the impressive architecture and learn more about the political significance of these buildings.
End your day with a visit to the highly revered Sikh shrine, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, to conclude the day with a spiritual touch.
Transfer to the hotel.
After arrival in Ayodhya at 2:55 PM, transfer to the hotel.
Ayodhya, a historic city in India, is famous for its religious significance and rich culture. During a tour, one can visit the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, which is the birthplace of the Hindu god Lord Rama. Additionally, there is the Hanuman Garhi Temple, dedicated to the monkey god Hanuman, and the Kanak Bhawan Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama and his wife Sita. The city is also known for its ghats along the Sarayu River, where one can enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
The construction of the Ram Lalla Temple in Ayodhya, India, in 2024 marks a significant milestone in the long history of the Ram Janmabhoomi conflict. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Rama and is being built on the site traditionally believed to be his birthplace. The temple’s construction follows decades of dispute over the site, which was contested between Hindus and Muslims due to the Babri Mosque that was destroyed in 1992. After a lengthy legal battle, the Indian Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that the land should be awarded to the Hindu temple. The construction of the Ram Lalla Temple is a symbolic and historic moment for millions of Hindus worldwide and marks a turning point in India’s religious and political landscape.
Lucknow offers a variety of delicious culinary experiences to try, from the famous Tunday Kababs to sweet delicacies found in traditional sweet shops.
In the evening, enjoy a culinary Heritage Walk in the old city. A Heritage Food Walk in Lucknow is a culinary adventure through the city's alleys and markets to experience Lucknow's rich gastronomic tradition. The tour navigates through historic neighborhoods and hidden corners where one can taste traditional Awadhi cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and rich tastes.
The tour might start with a visit to a local market, where fresh ingredients and spices used in the region's famous dishes can be discovered. Then, it leads to various street stalls and restaurants serving dishes like kebabs, biryanis, kormas, and Lucknawi biryani.
Throughout the tour, participants can learn more about Lucknow's culinary history and hear stories about the origins of the different dishes. The tour may end with indulging in sweet delicacies like Malai Gilori, Kulfi, and other traditional desserts.
Overall, a Heritage Food Walk in Lucknow is a unique way to discover and enjoy the local culture through its delicious cuisine.
Lucknow, the capital of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is a fascinating city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. During a visit, one can explore the impressive Bara Imambara, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece known for its labyrinth, the "Bhool Bhulaiya." The tour may also include the Rumi Darwaza, an impressive gateway in the Awadhi style, and the noteworthy Kaiser Palace Museum, offering insight into the region's royal history.
Upon arrival in Kolkata, Transfer to the Hotel to sleep.
Full-day visit to Kolkata city: The capital of West Bengal, formerly known as Calcutta and recently renamed Kolkata, is situated on the Hooghly River (the name for the Ganges in Kolkata). Its proximity to the river and the sea has made it a significant commercial center.
Kali Temple: The goddess Kali is the patron deity of Kolkata, and Bengalis worship this goddess with such passionate devotion that it creates an intoxicating spiritual blend for a first-time visitor. Among the many Kali temples that exist in Kolkata and Bengal, Kalighat is one of the holiest Kali temples.
Victoria Memorial (closed on Mondays): A fascinating architectural masterpiece converted into a museum housing the most memorable artifacts and collectibles from the British colonial era. The building, constructed from white marble from Jodhpur, serves as a monument to Queen Victoria.
Next, we take a stroll in Kolkata's famous artist quarter called Kumartuli. Walking through the lanes of Kumartuli in Kolkata is a captivating journey into the world of traditional pottery art and vibrant cultural scenes. The narrow lanes are lined with workshops where skilled craftsmen shape the famous terracotta gods and goddesses figures, especially the popular Durga statues for the Durga Puja festival. The scent of clay and paint fills the air as artists mold and refine their artworks.
Along the streets, you'll encounter lively scenes of everyday life, from children playing in the alleys to vendors offering their goods. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, full of energy and creativity.
As you wander through Kumartuli, you can admire the fascinating craftsmanship and perhaps even watch the artists at work. The area is also a melting pot of culture, where different traditions and customs converge. It's an unforgettable experience that expresses the glorious artistic and cultural diversity of Kolkata.
Once the proud capital of the British Raj, Calcutta is a city which evokes the sense of an era lost in time. It is a unique blend of new and old, ancient, and modern. It is a kaleidoscope of varied contrasts, unseen anywhere in India. It is a magical city, with rough and grimy upper layers but the real beauty embedded in its history, architecture and heritage lies beneath these layers.
After breakfast, transfer to the train station to take the train to Gaya and continue traveling to Bodh Gaya.
Overnight stay in Bodh Gaya.
Departure to Rajgir. Start your day early and head to Rajgir, a historic city in Bihar, India. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Rajgir Ropeway: Upon arrival in Rajgir, you can take the Rajgir Ropeway to reach the hill hosting the famous Vishwa Shanti Stupa. From here, you'll have a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Vishwa Shanti Stupa: Visit the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, also known as Peace Pagoda. This monumental stupa was built to promote world peace and provides a serene atmosphere for meditation and contemplation.
Griddhakuta Hill: Take a short hike to Griddhakuta Hill, also known as Vulture’s Peak, a sacred site of Buddhism where the Buddha delivered many discourses. Enjoy the view from this historic site.
Lunch Break: Take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant to fuel up for the afternoon.
After lunch, head to Nalanda to visit the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University. This ancient university was one of the most significant centers of learning and Buddhist studies in ancient India.
Nalanda Archaeological Museum: Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts and relics from the heyday of the university. Admire ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and other historical finds.
After breakfast, we will drive 250 km to Varanasi.
On the way, we will visit the tomb of Sher Shah Suri in Sasaram, one of the most important historical monuments in Sasaram. It was built in the 16th century and serves as the final resting place of the famous ruler Sher Shah Suri, who founded the Sur Empire. Sasaram is known as the birthplace of Sher Shah Suri.
After lunchbreak, you will drive to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located about 10 km from Varanasi. There, you can visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka Pillar, significant historical sites associated with the arrival of Buddha in Sarnath. Learn more about the history of Buddhism at the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Buddhist era.
Overnight in Varanasi.
Free Day to celebrate Holi with local people
Breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to the airport for the flight to Khajuraho.
Upon arrival, a sightseeing tour of Khajuraho. We can admire the temple architecture and the intricately carved statues of gods and goddesses from Indian mythology. They are artistically sculpted from stone and feature various colors ranging from skin tones to pink, yellow, and brown. Various sensual representations of the human body are particularly common and diverse here. We will also visit the largest temple, Kandariya Mahadeo, which is dedicated to the god Shiva.
In the afternoon, visit Raneh Falls:
A visit to Raneh Falls and the Ken Ghariyal Sanctuary in India offers a fascinating opportunity to experience the breathtaking nature and unique wildlife of this region. The Raneh Falls are a spectacular series of waterfalls that wind through the Ken River gorge and cascade into a picturesque canyon of basalt rock. The roaring waters and dramatic landscape provide an impressive backdrop for visitors who enjoy nature and photography.
Near Raneh Falls is the Ken Ghariyal Sanctuary, a reserve dedicated to the protection of the endangered Ganges gharial and other species. During a visit to the sanctuary, guests can take a boat ride on the Ken River to observe the gharials in their natural habitat. These rare crocodiles, known for their long, slender snouts, offer a fascinating sight and symbolize successful conservation efforts in the region.
In addition to wildlife observation and the waterfalls, the area around Raneh Falls and Ken Ghariyal Sanctuary also offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and nature exploration. For nature lovers and adventurers, a visit to these two locations is an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of nature in Central India.
Early morning visit to Panna Tiger Reserve.
A jeep safari in Panna National Park in India is an exciting adventure that allows visitors to experience the rich wildlife and natural beauty of this reserve. The safari is led by experienced guides who know the best routes to optimize wildlife sightings.
During the safari, there is the opportunity to see various animal species such as tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, antelopes, crocodiles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The jeep safari also provides a chance to admire the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including lush forests, picturesque rivers, and captivating landscapes.
Safaris are typically conducted early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the animals are most active and the chances of sightings are highest. Visitors should ensure they bring warm clothing and binoculars to make the most of their safari.
Overall, a jeep safari in Panna National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers who want to witness the beauty and wilderness of Indian wildlife up close.
After lunch, we will travel on the Vande Bharat Express to Agra, arriving at 8:46 PM. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Agra.
Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise for stunning views and fewer crowds. Please note that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
The Taj Mahal, one of the most famous buildings in the world, was built by Shah Jahan in honor of his wife Mumtaz. The construction lasted over 20 years. We will stop at the Taj Mahal during sunrise—the most charming and peaceful time—to appreciate the legendary beauty of this symbol of love.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the Red Fort. Following that, we will drive to Delhi. Overnight stay in Delhi.
After breakfast, transfer to the international airport to catch the flight back home.
FLY HOME.
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Simone-
2024-10-10 18:27:44Holi-Reise-Indien
Die Holi Reise nach Indien mit India Travel Boutique in 2024 war ein unvergessliches Erlebnis ! Besonders das Holi-Fest war ein Highlight – farbenfroh, authentisch und voller Freude. Dank der hervorragenden Organisation und der persönlichen Betreuung fühlten wir uns jederzeit sicher und willkommen . So konnten wir Indien auf eine einzigartige, tiefgehende Weise erlebt. Mein Fazit : Absolut empfehlenswert! 👍🏻